Why Juventus’ Khephren Thuram is unfortunate to miss out on France’s World Cup squad | OneFootball

France announced their squad for the FIFA World Cup yesterday and many were left scratching their heads. Les Bleus, after all, have a massive pool to pick from and Didier Deschamps’ task is never easy ahead of every major tournament.

But if there is someone whose exclusion is unfortunate, it is that of Juventus’ Khephren Thuram.

France, much to the surprise of many, called up Adrien Rabiot to the squad, famously not just excluding Thuram but also Eduardo Camavinga. The Real Madrid player not playing at the World Cup would obviously go down as a huge surprise but Thuram has actually enjoyed a much better season than his compatriot, who finds himself engulfed in chaos at Los Blancos.

Thuram vital to Juventus

The Juve midfielder has been one of the Bianconeri’s most important players since last season. He arrived in Serie A from Nice and despite some having initial doubts about whether he can pick up from where he left off, he did exactly that.

Since the previous campaign, he has become one of the best midfielders in Serie A. Even during times of instability in Turin, he has shined through, lifting fans off their seats with his ability to beat the press, dribble out of congested areas and carry the ball progressively.

When many around him have seen performance levels go down at times, Thuram has actually been one of the most consistent players too.

Thuram offers goals as well

One can easily argue that the inclusion of Roma’s Manu Kone removes the direct need for Thuram. While the point is fair as both do have similar profiles, but Thuram offers more coverage and also contributes to more goals.

In 94 appearances for Juve, has contributed to 21 goals, scoring nine and assisting 12 times. He brings more unpredictability to the plate, doing more than just what Kone offers in midfield. 

Rabiot does offer goals, physicality and versatility and that is one big reason why Deschamps trusts the Milan player. But technique wise, the Rossoneri man is a level below Thuram and even Kone. 

Granted, Thuram could well play at the next World Cup and he would be 29 by then. It is also fair to point out that France have a massive pool and this always makes things for Deschamps. But the Juve player’s pace and directness in midfield could come in handy at a tournament which is decided on instinct, moments of magic and pragmatism.

Kaustubh Pandey I GIFN